1965 Chevrolet Impala SS 396 4-Speed

We always appreciate your input at Barn Finds because, without you, this site doesn’t exist. You provide insightful feedback and are an enormous source of knowledge when I make glaring mistakes. Therefore, I must commend Barn Finder Curvette for using what is obviously a finely-tuned classic radar to spot this 1965 Chevrolet Impala SS. “Stunning” would be a great word to describe its appearance, but with a big-block under the hood, it would be equally appropriate to describe its performance. The seller has listed the Impala here on eBay in Valley Center, California. They set their BIN at $53,000 with the option to make an offer.

It is easy to see why Chevrolet’s Fourth Generation Impala range was a runaway success upon its 1965 release. The company offered an impressive selection of body styles, mechanical configurations, and trim levels. It meant that buyers seeking a full-size car were almost guaranteed to find the ideal candidate in their local Chevrolet showroom. The SS variant demonstrated the company’s commitment to serving performance-focused enthusiasts. In Sport Coupe form, the ’65 Impala was one of the most handsome cars to emerge in the 1960s. The seller indicates that this classic has spent its life in California, which explains its rust-free status. They describe the vehicle as restored, but there is one mystery that may require your feedback. The seller describes the paint shade as “Dark Purple,” although no such color appears on that year’s Charts. I believe that it might be Danube Blue, which walks a fine line between Blue and Purple. It will be fascinating to gauge your input to discover whether you agree. Faulting the appearance is seemingly impossible. The paint shines beautifully, the panels are laser-straight, and there are no trim or glass issues. The Impala rolls on a set of steel wheels, complete with spinner hubcaps and narrow whitewalls.

Diversity was key to the Impala’s success, including under the hood. A big-block V8 was available from Day One, making the SS a potent machine. Initially, the 409ci V8 producing 340hp was the weapon of choice. However, the company upgraded to the more modern 396ci motor in early 1965, delivering at least 325hp to the driver. This SS also features a four-speed manual transmission, a 12-bolt rear end, and power steering, meaning the buyer doesn’t need to be a bodybuilder to handle this classic. The listing indicates an odometer reading of 46,500 original miles, although there is no mention of verifying evidence. There’s also no information regarding the mechanical condition, but the indications are that this Impala is a turnkey proposition.

One thing that I admire about this Impala is what I would term its honesty. The seller’s photos are crisp and clear, exposing any issues or shortcomings. This interior shot perfectly demonstrates that approach. You can clearly see deterioration on some bright trim pieces, and it appears the left-hand end of the dashpad may be warped. However, the White vinyl is free of stains and yellowing, and the carpet looks excellent. The console houses a factory clock, and the dash features a tachometer and the original pushbutton radio.

Some classics are a one-trick pony, but such criticisms can’t be leveled at this 1965 Chevrolet Impala SS. Its presentation is seemingly flawless, while life in a dry climate has left it structurally sound. Its mechanical specifications hint at scintillating performance, and there’s enough interior space to comfortably accommodate five adults. It appears to have covered every base, and recent successful sales suggest that the price is realistic. However, the seller’s willingness to negotiate may improve the situation, which is why I believe this classic will find a new home fairly easily.